Degenerative disc disease: non-surgical care

What is degenerative disc disease?

Spinal discs act like shock absorbers. With time they can dry out, thin and lose cushioning. As discs wear, problems such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal) and spondylolisthesis (a vertebra slipping out of place) become more likely (Cleveland Clinic).

Symptoms

• Ongoing low back or neck pain that may flare up from time to time
• Pain that's worse with sitting, bending or lifting and better with walking or changing position
• Pain, numbness or tingling into the legs or arms if a nerve is affected

How spinal decompression may help

Decompression gently stretches the spine in cycles to try to relieve pressure on worn discs and the nerves near them. It's not a way to rebuild discs. The aim is less pain and easier movement for people who are good candidates. Some people with severe osteoporosis or an unstable spine aren't candidates, which is one reason the exam comes first. Who is and isn't a candidate.

Other options

Exercise and physical therapy, weight management, pain relievers, injections and, for some people, surgery are other options. Many people use a combination over time.

This website is operated for Stapel Family Chiropractic (Springville Disc Center) in Springville, Utah. Care is provided by Dr. Gordon Stapel, DC, a licensed chiropractic physician. About this site.